Rachel Nichols highlights Kawhi Leonard's trade impact on NBA history
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 15, 2026, 7:04 AM
Last updated Sep 15, 2026

Rachel Nichols analyzed the implications of Kawhi Leonard's trade back to the Toronto Raptors, emphasizing the significant changes his departure in 2019 had on the NBA. Leonard's initial move to the LA Clippers sparked a chain reaction, impacting teams and players across the league. Nichols suggested that had Leonard remained with the Raptors, key players such as Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Kyle Lowry might have experienced different careers. As Leonard returns to Toronto, he faces a new chapter while reflecting on his career decisions that reshaped the NBA.
- •Kawhi Leonard rejoins the Raptors after trading from the Clippers.
- •Nichols discusses the hypothetical scenarios stemming from Leonard's 2019 departure.
- •His initial move led to significant shifts in team rosters and NBA titles.
- •Leonard's return could mark a new phase in his career.
- 7:04 AMYahoo Sports — Rachel Nichols urges fans to consider ‘brain frying’ implications of Kawhi Leonard’s Raptors trade
"Sports analyst Rachel Nichols points out the domino effect of Kawhi Leonard leaving the Toronto Raptors in 2019. In 2019, Kawhi Leonard was in the absolute prime of his NBA career, and he was among the hottest commodities in the league.
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